In fact, Limasawa is a name invented only in 1667 by Fr. Francisco Combes who had not read one SINGLE true account of Magellan’s voyage.

Combes also never said Limasawa is where Magellan’s fleet anchored from March to April 1521.

Combes did not say a mass was held anywhere in the Philippines on March 31, 1521.

Combes said Limasawa was a stopover island. But never the port. Here is what Combes wrote:

“The first time that the royal standards of the Faith were seen to fly in this island [of Mindanao] was when the Archipelago was first discovered by the Admiral Alonso de Magallanes. He followed a new and difficult route [across the Pacific] , entering by the Strait of Siargao, formed by that island and that of Leyte, and landing at the island of Limasaua which is at theentrance of that Strait. Amazed by the novelty and stangeness of the [Spanish] nation and the ships, the barbarians of that island welcomed them and gave them good refreshments.
While at Limasaua, enjoying rest and good treatment, they heard of the River of Butuan, whose chieftain was more powerful. His reputation attracted our men thither to see for themselves or be disillusioned, their curiosity sharpened by the fact that the place was nearby. The barbariqan [chief] lived up to our men’s expectations, providing them with the food they needed….Magellan contented himself with having them do reverence to the cross which is erected upon a hillock as a sign to future generations of their alliance….The solemnity with which the cross was erected and the deep piety shown by the Spaniards, and by the natives following the example of the Spaniards, engendered great respect for the cross.
Not finding in Butuan the facilities required by the ships, they returned to Limasaua to seek further advice in planning their future route. The Prince of Limasaua told them of the three most powerful nations among the Pintados [Visayans], namely those of Caraga, Samar, and Zebu. The nearness of Zebu, the facilities of its port, and the more developed social structure (being more monarchial) aroused everyone’s desire to go thither. Thus, guided by the chief of Limasaua, passing between Bool and Leyte and close to the Camotes Islands, they entered the harbor of Cebu by the Mandawe entrance on the 7th of April 1521, having departed from Limasaua on the first day of that month.”

Translation by Fr. Miguel Bernad, “Butuan or Limasawa?” in: Kinaadman, Vol. III, 1981, pages 4-5.

Now, is there any reference to a “first mass” in his story?

VICENTE CALIBO DE JESUS
ginesdemafra@gmail.com